Summer in the UK is long awaited year round. Of course, Birtish summer's come with the occasional heatwave and rain shower, but the welcome sunshine also brings along a calendar stacked with holidays, rooftop sundowners, alfresco brunches and of course, weddings. And if, like me, you love any excuse to dig out the best dresses you can find, there's no better time. More specifically, the best summer dresses you can find.
Whether you're gearing up for a sweaty commute to work or dressing up for more formal events, a summer dress presents an easy one-and-done option that doesn't require hours of outfit planning. Thankfully, every year designers have been banking on summer dresses, releasing an array of seasonless styles as well as trendy must-haves, putting them front and centre of their collections in all their glorious forms. And there's plenty of best-sellers, with some flying off the shelves in every colour and size. Take Tove's strapless dress, as seen on Thandi Maq who says: 'Never before have I wanted to own a dress in every single available colour way before this one.' Or the Nobody's Child polka dot dress that the brand can barely seem to keep in stock.
Whether you're looking for the best maxi dress for a summer wedding or the best slip dress for a night out with friends, there are summer dresses galore for 2024. There's an abundance of trends, too, rather than one to rule us all: from deliciously seductive butter yellow dresses and grown-up takes on polka dots to dropped waistline and bubble hemlines. And don't forget, even the best spring dresses can be taken into the summer months, too.
From classic shift minis at M&S to bow-adorned styles at Ganni and drop waist midis at Abercrombie & Fitch, there's an eclectic mix of summer dresses this year. Many of them can be worn all year round, too, with the help of some clever layering. So, what are you waiting for? Shop them below.
SHOP: The Best Summer Dresses 2025
www.marksandspencer.com
Now that M&S' operations are back online, the brand has reclaimed its spot as one of our favourite destinations for trendy and timeless staples like this mini shift dress. Designed with darts on the front for a flattering fit, the sleeveless denim mini is easy to style for any occasion – from work to date nights. Plus, the brand offers the dress in petite, regular and tall lengths for a comfortable fit no matter your body type.
www.zara.com
A floral shift mini is probably the best summer dress for petite women, as Grazia's commerce writer Gemma Lavers proves. This Zara mini is cut for an A-line fit which is comfortable and easy to style, while the painterly florals are cheery enough to brighten up even a gloomy summer's day. Style this with a strappy sandals and sleek sunglasses for an easy look.
damsonmadder.com
This glorious midi dress looks far more expensive than it actually is, thanks to high-quality organic cotton and a considered design. It comes with ties along the torso for a perfectly fitted bodice before flaring out into a voluminous skirt. Perfect for twirling around in on holiday abroad this year.
www.hillhousehome.com
Hill House Home went viral thanks to the wonderful (and ridiculously comfortable) nap dress. Worn by the likes of Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift, the brand's dress offering is truly the gift that keeps on giving. The season standout? The blue Yara sundress made from 100% cotton, featuring girlish puffy sleeves and a flared full skirt.
shop.mango.com
Mango might just take the crown for creating high-street dresses that look and feel so much more expensive than they are, and this satin number is no exception. From the flowing silhouette that drapes across the body beautifully to the asymmetric sleeves, this is a dress that deserves top spot in your occasionwear closet this summer.
www.riverisland.com
Say hello to some of the best summer dresses in the business by River Island. The high street shop knows a thing or two about dressing for hot weather – this midi, with it's trendy dropped waist silhouette and easy striped design is possibly the perfect sunny day dress, whatever your plans.
French Connectionwww.nobodyschild.com
There are dresses – and then there are Nobody's Child dresses. The British brand knows a thing or two when it comes to dressing for warmer weather and this striking blue iteration of the viral Felicity midi will take you everywhere – from holidays by the beach to summer weddings – with ease.
50% off
sleeper/ harrodswww.net-a-porter.com
Ultra-stretchy, this dress is incredibly comfortable. The Atlanta midi is made with linen for a cool, breathable summer look that is super chic and will keep you sweat free on your endeavours. Simply style with a starw basket bag and your best summer sandals for a breezy look.
www.zara.com
The ultimate cool-girl summer dress, ideal for covering up at the beach or relaxing at the park on a hot summer's day. Pair with flat mules for or pointed toe sandals for an effortlessly chic look.
Half price
www.abercrombie.com
In case you haven't heard, polka dots are in, and this perfectly coquettish dress from Abercrombie & Fitch is the epitome of spring. Available in specific petite, regular and tall lengths as well as six vibrant shades and prints, whatever your body type or style preference, the Emerson maxi will be your go-to this summer.
www.stories.com
Linen is always a good idea in the heat and this dress is one of the best this season. Available in a trendy mint green shade or classic black with an oversized bow and puffed sleeves, you'll want to wear it all summer long. You'll save it for next summer, too.
www.pinkcityprints.com
Pink City Prints' handblock printed cotton creations are for those unbearably hot days where you can't fathom getting dressed. After all, this playful tie strap midi needs little in the way of styling to steal the show and keep you comfy all day long.
www2.hm.com
An easy-breezy dress to throw on during the scorching summer months when tight fitting clothing (such as jeans) are off the cards. It's perfect for wearing with cowboy boots for a boho chic look. You coul aslo add a belt to cinch your waist, if you desire.
www.meandem.com
One of our favourite brands for dresses (and adored by Kate Middleton) ME+EM's cheesecloth tulip print maxi is chic, sophisticated, breathable, and very versatile. The shirred waistline and full skirt will look brilliant and keep you comfortable.
anna octoberwww.modaoperandi.com
The Tulip maxi is already selling fast. No surprise there, though; from the colour to the satin material, it's a showstopper. You'll wear it for every special occasion and feel amazing every time.
kitri sisterjane.com
If your style is more dainty and coquettish than most, Sister Jane is where it's at for you. This super flattering pistachion green mini an ideal summer number, thanks to a puff sleeves and vibrant green floral jacquard. A pearl headband and bow-adorned ballet flats aren't mandatory, but highly encouraged.
ganniwww.ganni.com
There's a reason why Ganni has quickly amassed a devoted following. The brand's dresses are beautifully made, ethereally pretty and will last a lifetime. This bow-adorned mini will be everything you're looking for in a heatwave, too.
www.thereformation.com
Tap into the gingham trend with this pretty checked dress from Reformation. Available in three other variations including stripes, classic black and a bright blood orange, it will take you from weekends to weddings with a little help from your accessories.
river islandwww.gap.co.uk
Super chic and much more expensive-looking than its price tag suggests, this midi from the coveted Gap x Dôen collaboration will be your holiday staple this year and beyond. Wear with mules or sandals for a sophisticated city break day look.
Which Dress is Best in Summer?
Ah, the eternal question every begins to ponders as the temperature rises. When it comes to summer dresses, it's all about finding that delicate balance between style and comfort. From breezy maxis to daring minis, the options are endless.
However, one silhouette reigns supreme in the scorching heat: the lightweight sundress. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, vibrant prints, and playful details like ruffles or cut-outs to truly embrace the essence of summer.
What is the Best Dress for Hot Weather?
Enter the quintessential summer dress – your ultimate weapon against the sweltering heat. The perfect dress for hot weather is one that allows your skin to breathe while exuding effortless elegance. Look for designs crafted from lightweight, breathable fabrics such as airy chiffon or crisp cotton.
In terms of styles, embrace flowing silhouettes that offer plenty of ventilation, such as A-line or empire waist dresses. Opt for soothing pastel hues or bold tropical prints to channel those summer vibes, and don't forget the little details that make all the difference – think spaghetti straps, open backs, or strategically placed cut-outs to maximise airflow and keep you feeling refreshed all day long. With the right hot weather dress in your arsenal, you'll breeze through those scorching days in style.
How Do I Find the Perfect Summer Dress?
The quest for the perfect summer dress is filled with endless possibilities. The key to finding your dream summer dress lies in understanding your personal style, body shape, and the occasions you'll be dressing for.
Begin by considering the silhouette that flatters your figure and reflects your individual taste – whether it's a flirty mini, a bohemian maxi, or a tailored shift dress. Next, pay close attention to fabric choice – opt for breathable materials like linen, cotton, or lightweight silk to ensure comfort in the summer heat.
Embrace vibrant prints, playful patterns, or timeless classics, depending on your mood and the vibe you wish to convey. And remember, accessorising is key – whether it's a statement sun hat, oversized sunglasses, or strappy sandals, let your accessories do the hard work.
Hannah Banks-Walker is the Head of Fashion Commerce for Grazia, where she waxes lyrical about midi dresses and tries not to collect any more red lipsticks.